Principal
State licensure requirements
The University’s Masters in Education/Administration and Supervision (MAED/ADM) program meets the state licensure requirements for principal certification in the states listed below. There are two pathways to achieve certification:
1) “Direct Apply” – states that accept our Arizona-approved program and permit candidates to apply directly for certification, and
2) “Reciprocity” – states that require candidates of our Arizona-approved program to obtain Arizona certification first before applying for certification in their home state.
Review the licensure requirements listed under your state as you prepare for your principal preparation journey.
As a principal candidate in Alabama, you must meet the following requirements to apply for licensure through a Reciprocity pathway after completing your University of Phoenix principal preparation program:
Teaching Experience:
Principal candidates in Alabama will need to have a minimum of three years licensed or certificated instructional experience in a P-12 setting (18 months for admission to the program). A valid teaching certificate is required for licensure. Applicants must provide evidence of a current teaching license. The current teaching license must be a renewable standard or professional license. Licenses that are designated as a temporary, substitute, emergency, probationary, intern, or other non-professional licenses will not be accepted.
Clearances:
Background check: Background check must be obtained and submitted to the University of Phoenix. Alabama candidates apply for initial principal license via the reciprocity pathway. In order to obtain an Arizona Institutional Recommendation, reciprocity candidates must complete Arizona Fingerprint Clearance.[1]
Immunizations: Requirements may vary by district, and candidates should contact the school district for a list of the immunizations required prior to internship.[1]
Field Experience:
Principal candidates will complete a minimum of 30 hours of verified field experiences relating to specific course content. The field experience hours are completed outside of the 240-hour Administrative Internship experience.[1]
Internship Experience:
Principal candidates will complete a minimum 240-hour Internship experience at an approved site. The internship hours are accrued in addition to the field experience hours.[1]
Exams:
Principal Exam[1]: Principal candidates will complete the Principal certification exam.
Praxis Educational Leadership: Administration and Supervision
The principal exam listed above is an Alabama specific exam. Arizona Department of Education (ADE) accepts exams that are equivalent to ADE’s required exams. In order to waive the equivalent Arizona exam, the official score report must document that your exam was reported to another state and that you passed the exam in that state. The Arizona Out of State Exam Equivalents list is maintained by the Arizona Department of Education (ADE) and can be updated by ADE at anytime.
Arizona Out of State Exam Equivalents by State
Apply for Licensure:
Within 45 days of graduating from the principal preparation program, the University of Phoenix will prepare and submit an electronic Arizona Institutional Recommendation (AZ IR) to the Arizona Department of Education confirming completion of your program. Once the AZ IR has been submitted, Alabama principal candidates will first apply for principal licensure in Arizona through the online Educator Certification System.[1]
Alabama principal candidates will have to include a copy of their valid Arizona teaching license as part of their application for Alabama licensure.
Alabama Out of State Certificate
State Agency Contact Information:
Alabama State Department of Education
Mailing Address
PO Box 302101
Montgomery, AL 36104
Physical Address
50 N Ripley St.
Montgomery, AL 36130
Phone: 334-694-4900
Email: comm@alsde.edu
As a principal candidate in Alaska, you must meet the following requirements to apply for licensure through the Direct Apply pathway after completing your University of Phoenix principal preparation program:
Teaching Experience:
Principal candidates will need to have a minimum of three years licensed or certificated instructional experience in a P-12 setting (18 months for admission to the program). The teaching or instructional experience must be as a contracted teacher in either a traditional or year-round public or private school. Applicants must provide evidence of a current teaching license. The current teaching license must be a renewable standard or professional license. Licenses that are designated as a temporary, substitute, emergency, probationary, intern, or other non-professional licenses will not be accepted.
Immunizations:
Requirements may vary by district, and candidates should contact the school district for a list of the immunizations required prior to internship.[1]
Field Experience:
Principal candidates will complete a minimum of 30 hours of verified field experiences relating to specific course content. The field experience hours are completed outside of the 240 hour Administrative Internship experience.
Internship Experience:
Principal candidates will complete a minimum 240-hour Internship experience at an approved site. The internship hours are accrued in addition to the field experience hours.
Additional requirements:
For initial principal licensure Alaska requires the completion of the following trainings within the last 5 years:
- Alcohol and drug related disabilities
- Sexual abuse and sexual assault awareness and prevention
- Dating violence and abuse awareness and prevention
- Suicide prevention
Principal candidates are required to complete one of the available options to qualify for the Alaska Reads Act Endorsement.
Apply for Licensure:
Alaska principal candidates will apply for licensure directly to the Alaska Department of Education.
Alaska Initial Administrative (TYPE B) Application
State Agency Contact Information:
Alaska Dept. of Education & Early Development
Mailing Address
PO Box 110500
Juneau, AK 99811-050
Teacher Certification Office, Juneau
333 Willoughby Ave.,
9th FL, State Office Building
Juneau, AK 99801
Teacher Certification Office, Anchorage
550 West 7th Ave., Suite 810
Anchorage, AK 99501Phone: 907-465-2831
Email: tcwebmail@alaska.gov
As a principal candidate in Arizona, you must meet the following requirements to apply for licensure through the Direct Apply pathway after completing your University of Phoenix principal preparation program:
Teaching Experience:
Principal candidates will need to have a minimum of three years instructional experience in a P-12 setting (18 months for admission to the program). The teaching or instructional experience must be as a contracted teacher in either a traditional or year-round public or private school. Applicants must provide evidence of a current teaching license. The current teaching license must be a renewable standard or professional license. Licenses that are designated as a temporary, substitute, emergency, probationary, intern, or other non-professional licenses will not be accepted.
Immunizations:
Requirements may vary by district, and candidates should contact the school district for a list of the immunizations required prior to internship.[1]
Field Experience:
Principal candidates will complete a minimum of 30 hours of verified field experiences relating to specific course content. The field experience hours are completed outside of the 240-hour Administrative Internship experience.[1]
Internship Experience:
Principal candidates will complete a minimum 240-hour Internship experience at an approved site. The internship hours are accrued in addition to the field experience hours.[1]
Exam:
Principal Exam[1]: Principal candidates will complete the Principal certification exam.
AEPA Principal Exam Subtest I and II
Apply for Licensure:
Within 45 days of graduating from the principal preparation program, the University of Phoenix will prepare and submit an electronic Arizona Institutional Recommendation (AZ IR) to the Arizona Department of Education confirming completion of your program. Once the AZ IR has been submitted, Arizona principal candidates will apply for principal licensure through the online Educator Certification System.[1]
State Agency Contact Information:
Arizona Dept. of Education
ADE - Certification
P.O. Box 6490
Phoenix, AZ 85005-6490
Physical Address:
1535 West Jefferson Street
Phoenix, AZ 85007
Phone: 602-542-4367
Email: certification@azed.gov
As a principal candidate in Colorado, you must meet the following requirements to apply for licensure through the Direct Apply pathway after completing your University of Phoenix principal preparation program:
Teaching Experience:
Principal candidates will need to have a minimum of three years licensed or certificated instructional experience in a P-12 setting (18 months for admission to the program). The teaching or instructional experience must be as a contracted teacher in either a traditional or year-round public or private school. Applicants must provide evidence of a current teaching license. The current teaching license must be a renewable standard or professional license. Licenses that are designated as a temporary, substitute, emergency, probationary, intern, or other non-professional licenses will not be accepted.
Immunizations:
Requirements may vary by district, and candidates should contact the school district for a list of the immunizations required prior to internship.[1]
Field Experience:
Principal candidates will complete a minimum of 30 hours of verified field experiences relating to specific course content. The field experience hours are completed outside of the 270-hour Administrative Internship experience.[1]
Internship Experience:
Principal candidates who signed Enrollment Agreements prior to 2/10/2021 will complete a minimum 240-hour Internship experience at an approved site. Principal candidates who signed Enrollment Agreements on or after 2/10/2021 will complete a minimum 270-hour Internship experience at an approved site. The internship hours are accrued in addition to the field experience hours.[1]
Exam:
Principal Exam[1]: Principal candidates will complete the Principal certification exam.
Praxis Educational Leadership Exam for Principal K-12
Additional Requirements:
Principal candidates must complete the E-Train evaluator training prior to applying for their initial principal license.
Apply for Licensure:
Colorado principal candidates will apply for licensure directly to the Colorado Department of Education.
Colorado Initial Principal License Application
State Agency Contact Information:
Colorado Dept. of Education
201 East Colfax Ave.
Denver, CO 80203
Educator Talent – Licensing
6000 E Evans Ave
Building #2, Suite 100
Denver, CO 80222
Phone: 702-739-3304
Email: CDELicensing@cde.state.co.us
As a principal candidate in Delaware, you must meet the following requirements to apply for licensure through a Reciprocity pathway after completing your University of Phoenix principal preparation program
Teaching Experience:
Principal candidates will need to have a minimum of five years instructional experience in a P-12 setting (42 months for admission to the program). The teaching or instructional experience must be as a certified, contracted teacher in either a traditional or year-round public or private school. A valid teaching certificate is required for licensure. Applicants must provide evidence of a current teaching license. The current teaching license must be a renewable standard or professional license. Licenses that are designated as a temporary, substitute, emergency, probationary, intern, or other non-professional licenses will not be accepted.
Clearances:
Background check: Background check must be obtained and submitted to the University of Phoenix. Delaware candidates apply for initial principal license via the reciprocity pathway. In order to obtain an Arizona Institutional Recommendation, reciprocity candidates must complete Arizona Fingerprint Clearance.[1]
Immunizations: Requirements may vary by district, and candidates should contact the school district for a list of the immunizations required prior to internship.[1]
Field Experience:
Principal candidates will complete a minimum of 30 hours of verified field experiences relating to specific course content. The field experience hours are completed outside of the 240-hour Administrative Internship experience.[1]
Internship Experience:
Principal candidates in Delaware will complete a minimum 240-hour Internship experience at an approved site. The internship hours are accrued in addition to the field experience hours.[1]
Exam:
Principal Exam[1]: Principal candidates will complete the Principal certification exam.
Praxis School Leaders Licensure Assessment
Candidates need to take and pass Praxis School Leadership Licensure Assessment (test code 6990) to meet both programmatic and licensure requirements.
The principal exam listed above is a Delaware specific exam. Arizona Department of Education accepts exams that are equivalent to their required exams. In order to waive the equivalent Arizona exam, the official score report must document that your exam was reported to another state and that you passed the exam in that state. The Arizona Out of State Exam Equivalents list is maintained by the Arizona Department of Education (ADE) and can be updated by ADE at anytime.
Arizona Out of State Exam Equivalents by State
Apply for Licensure:
Within 45 days of graduating from the principal preparation program, the University of Phoenix will prepare and submit an electronic Arizona Institutional Recommendation (AZ IR) to the Arizona Department of Education confirming completion of your program. Once the AZ IR has been submitted, Delaware principal candidates will first apply for principal licensure in Arizona through the online Educator Certification System.[1]
Delaware principal candidates must include a copy of their valid Arizona principal license as part of their application for Delaware licensure.
Delaware Principal Licensure Application
State Agency Contact Information:
Delaware Department of Education
Licensure & Certification
Collette Education Resource Center
35 Commerce Way, Suite 1
Dover, DE 19904
Phone: 302-857-3388
As a principal candidate in District of Columbia, you must meet the following requirements to apply for licensure through the Direct Apply pathway after completing your University of Phoenix principal preparation program:
Teaching Experience:
Principal candidates will need to have a minimum of four years instructional experience in a P-12 setting (30 months for admission to the program). The teaching or instructional experience must be as a contracted teacher in either a traditional or year-round public or private school. Applicants must provide evidence of a current teaching license. The current teaching license must be a renewable standard or professional license. Licenses that are designated as a temporary, substitute, emergency, probationary, intern, or other non-professional licenses will not be accepted.
Immunizations:
Requirements may vary by district, and candidates should contact the school district for a list of the immunizations required prior to internship.[1]
Field Experience:
Principal candidates will complete a minimum of 30 hours of verified field experiences relating to specific course content. The field experience hours are completed outside of the 240-hour Administrative Internship experience.[1]
Internship Experience:
Principal candidates will complete a minimum 240-hour Internship experience at an approved site. The internship hours are accrued in addition to the field experience hours.[1]
Apply for Licensure:
District of Columbia principal candidates will apply for licensure directly to the Office of the State Superintendent of Education.
District of Columbia Licensure Application
State Agency Contact Information:
Office of the State Superintendent of Education (OSSE)
1050 First Street, NE
Washington, DC 20002
Phone: 202-727-6436
Email: osse@dc.gov
As a principal candidate in Florida, you must meet the following requirements to apply for licensure through the Direct Apply pathway after completing your University of Phoenix principal preparation program:
Teaching Experience:
Principal candidates will need to have a minimum of three years instructional experience in a P-12 setting (18 months for admission to the program). The teaching or instructional experience must be as a contracted teacher in either a traditional or year-round public or private school. A valid teaching certificate is required for licensure. Applicants must provide evidence of a current teaching license. The current teaching license must be a renewable standard or professional license. Licenses that are designated as a temporary, substitute, emergency, probationary, intern, or other non-professional licenses will not be accepted.
Immunizations:
Requirements may vary by district, and candidates should contact the school district for a list of the immunizations required prior to internship.[1]
Field Experience:
Principal candidates will complete a minimum of 30 hours of verified field experiences relating to specific course content. The field experience hours are completed outside of the 240-hour Administrative Internship experience.[1]
Internship Experience:
Principal candidates will complete a minimum 240-hour Internship experience at an approved site. The internship hours are accrued in addition to the field experience hours.[1]
Exam:
Principal Exam[1]: Principal candidates will complete the Principal certification exam.
Florida Educational Leadership Examination (FELE)
Apply for Licensure:
Florida principal candidates will apply for licensure directly to the Florida Department of Education.
Florida Initial Principal License Application
Contact Information:
Florida Dept. of Education
Bureau of Educator Certification
Room 201, Turlington Building
325 West Gaines Street
Tallahassee, Florida 32399-0400
Phone: 1-800-445-6739
As a principal candidate in Hawaii, you must meet the following requirements to apply for licensure through the Direct Apply pathway after completing your University of Phoenix principal preparation program:
Teaching Experience:
Principal candidates will need to have a minimum of four years instructional experience in a P-12 setting (34 months for admission to the program). The teaching or instructional experience must be as a contracted teacher in either a traditional or year-round public or private school. Applicants must provide evidence of a current teaching license. The current teaching license must be a renewable standard or professional license. Licenses that are designated as a temporary, substitute, emergency, probationary, intern, or other non-professional licenses will not be accepted.
Immunizations:
The state of Hawaii requires negative TB testing and MMR immunization prior to entering the classroom. Additional immunization verification may be required for admission in accordance with state requirements.[1]
Field Experience:
Principal candidates will complete a minimum of 30 hours of verified field experiences relating to specific course content. The field experience hours are completed outside of the 240-hour Administrative Internship experience.[1]
Internship Experience:
Principal candidates will complete a minimum 240-hour Internship experience at an approved site. The internship hours are accrued in addition to the field experience hours.[1]
Additional Requirements:
Completion of the Hawaii Certification Institute for School Leaders (HICISL) program is required to be eligible to apply for a Principal certificate. Visit the HICISL for more information.
Apply for Licensure:
Hawai’i principal candidates will apply directly to their state for initial licensure.
Hawai’i Principal Licensure Application
State Agency Contact Information:
Hawai’i State Dept. of Education
1390 Miller St.
Honolulu, HI 96813
Phone: 808-784-6200
Email: doeinfo@k12.hi.us
As a principal candidate in Idaho, you must meet the following requirements to apply for licensure through a Reciprocity pathway after completing your University of Phoenix principal preparation program:
Teaching Experience:
Principal candidates will need to have a minimum of four years licensed or certificated instructional experience in a P-12 setting (30 months for admission to the program). The teaching or instructional experience must be as a contracted teacher in either a traditional or year-round public or private school. A valid teaching certificate is required for licensure. Applicants must provide evidence of a current teaching license. The current teaching license must be a renewable standard or professional license. Licenses that are designated as a temporary, substitute, emergency, probationary, intern, or other non-professional licenses will not be accepted.
Clearances:
Background check: Background check must be obtained and submitted to the University of Phoenix. Idaho candidates apply for initial principal license via the reciprocity pathway. In order to obtain an Arizona Institutional Recommendation, reciprocity candidates must complete Arizona Fingerprint Clearance.[1]
Immunizations: Requirements may vary by district, and candidates should contact the school district for a list of the immunizations required prior to internship.[1]
Field Experience:
Principal candidates will complete a minimum of 30 hours of verified field experiences relating to specific course content. The field experience hours are completed outside of the 240-hour Administrative Internship experience.[1]
Internship Experience:
Principal candidates will complete a minimum 240-hour Internship experience at an approved site. The internship hours are accrued in addition to the field experience hours.[1]
Exam:
Principal Exam[1]: Principal candidates will complete the Principal certification exam.
AEPA Principal Exam Subtest I and II
Apply for Licensure:
Within 45 days of graduating from the principal preparation program, the University of Phoenix will prepare and submit an electronic Arizona Institutional Recommendation (AZ IR) to the Arizona Department of Education confirming completion of your program. Once the AZ IR has been submitted, Idaho principal candidates will apply for principal licensure in Arizona through the online Educator Certification System.[1]
Idaho principal candidates must include a copy of their valid Arizona principal license as part of their application for Idaho licensure.
Idaho Application for Out-of-State Candidates
State Agency Contact Information:
Idaho State Dept. of Education
Mailing Address:
PO Box 83720
Boise, ID 83720-0027
Physical Address:
650 W State St, 2nd Floor
Boise, ID 83702
Phone: 208-332-6800
Toll Free: 800-432-4601
Fax: 208-334-2228
Email: info@sde.idaho.gov
As a principal candidate in Illinois, you must meet the following requirements to apply for licensure through the Direct Apply pathway after completing your University of Phoenix principal preparation program:
Teaching Experience:
Principal candidates will need to have a minimum of four years instructional experience in a P-12 setting (30 months for admission to the program). The teaching or instructional experience must be as a contracted teacher in either a traditional or year-round public or private school. Applicants must provide evidence of a current teaching license. The current teaching license must be a renewable standard or professional license. Licenses that are designated as a temporary, substitute, emergency, probationary, intern, or other non-professional licenses will not be accepted.
Immunizations:
Requirements may vary by district, and candidates should contact the school district for a list of the immunizations required prior to internship.[1]
Field Experience:
Principal candidates will complete a minimum of 30 hours of verified field experiences relating to specific course content. The field experience hours are completed outside of the 240-hour Administrative Internship experience.[1]
Internship Experience:
Principal candidates will complete a minimum 240-hour Internship experience at an approved site. The internship hours are accrued in addition to the field experience hours.[1]
Exam:
Principal Exam[1]: Principal candidates will complete the Principal certification exam.
Illinois Principal as Instructional Leader
Apply for Licensure:
Illinois principal candidates will apply for licensure directly to the Illinois Board of Education.
Illinois Principal as Instructional Leader
State Agency Contact Information:
Illinois State Board of Education
100 N. 1st Street
Springfield, IL 62777
Phone: 217-782-4321
Chicago Location:
555 West Monroe Street, Suite 900
Chicago, IL 60661
Phone: 312-814-2220
Email: support@isbe.net
As a principal candidate in Kansas, you must meet the following requirements to apply for licensure through a Reciprocity pathway after completing your University of Phoenix principal preparation program:
Teaching Experience:
Principal candidates will need to have a minimum of five years instructional experience in a P-12 setting (42 months for admission to the program), on a standard license. The teaching or instructional experience must be as a contracted teacher in a state-accredited school. Applicants must provide evidence of a current professional teaching license. The current teaching license must be a renewable professional license. Licenses that are designated as a temporary, substitute, emergency, probationary, intern, initial, standard, or other non-professional licenses will not be accepted.
Clearances:
Background check: Background check must be obtained and submitted to the University of Phoenix. Kansas candidates apply for initial principal license via the reciprocity pathway. In order to obtain an Arizona Institutional Recommendation, reciprocity candidates must complete Arizona Fingerprint Clearance.[1]
Immunizations: Requirements may vary by district, and candidates should contact the school district for a list of the immunizations required prior to internship.[1]
Field Experience:
Principal candidates will complete a minimum of 30 hours of verified field experiences relating to specific course content. The field experience hours are completed outside of the 240-hour Administrative Internship experience.[1]
Internship Experience:
Principal candidates will complete a minimum 240-hour Internship experience at an approved site. The internship hours are accrued in addition to the field experience hours.[1]
Exam:
Principal Exam[1]: Principal candidates will complete the Principal certification exam.
Praxis School Leaders Licensure Assessment
The principal exam listed above is a Kansas specific exam. Arizona Department of Education (ADE) accepts exams that are equivalent to ADE’s required exams. In order to waive the equivalent Arizona exam, the official score report must document that your exam was reported to another state and that you passed the exam in that state. The Arizona Out of State Exam Equivalents list is maintained by the Arizona Department of Education (ADE) and can be updated by ADE at anytime.
Arizona Out of State Exam Equivalents by State
Additional requirements:
Kansas requires a minimum cumulative 3.25 GPA in the graduate program coursework.
Apply for Licensure:
Within 45 days of graduating from the principal preparation program, the University of Phoenix will prepare and submit an electronic Arizona Institutional Recommendation (AZ IR) to the Arizona Department of Education confirming completion of your program. Once the AZ IR has been submitted, Kansas principal candidates will first apply for principal licensure in Arizona through the online Educator Certification System.[1]
Kansas principal candidates must include a copy of their valid Arizona teaching license as part of their application for Kansas licensure.
Kansas Licensure Application System.
State Agency Contact Information:
Kansas State Department of Education
Teacher Licensure and Accreditation
Landon State Office Building
900 S.W. Jackson Street, Suite 102
Topeka, KS 66612-1212
Phone: 785-296-2288
Email: TLALicense@ksde.org
As a principal candidate in Louisiana, you must meet the following requirements to apply for licensure through the Direct Apply pathway after completing your University of Phoenix principal preparation program:
Teaching Experience:
Principal candidates will need to have a minimum of five years instructional experience in a P-12 setting (42 months for admission to the program). The teaching or instructional experience must be as a contracted teacher in either a traditional or year-round public or private school. A valid teaching certificate is required for licensure. Applicants must provide evidence of a current teaching license. The current teaching license must be a renewable standard or professional license. Licenses that are designated as a temporary, substitute, emergency, probationary, intern, or other non-professional licenses will not be accepted.
Immunizations:
Requirements may vary by district, and candidates should contact the school district for a list of the immunizations required prior to internship.[1]
Field Experience:
Principal candidates will complete a minimum of 30 hours of verified field experiences relating to specific course content. The field experience hours are completed outside of the 240-hour Administrative Internship experience.[1]
Internship Experience:
Principal candidates will complete a minimum 240-hour Internship experience at an approved site. The internship hours are accrued in addition to the field experience hours.[1]
Exam:
Principal Exam[1]: Principal candidates will complete the Principal certification exam.
Praxis School Leaders Licensure Assessment
Apply for Licensure:
Louisiana principal candidates will apply for licensure directly to the Louisiana Department of Education.
Louisiana Licensure Application
State Agency Contact Information:
Please note, the Louisiana Department of Education does not provide a mailing address for teacher candidates.
Teachlouisiana.net and TeachLALive! Online educator certification portal
As a principal candidate in Maine, you must meet the following requirements to apply for licensure through the Direct Apply pathway after completing your University of Phoenix principal preparation program:
Teaching Experience:
Principal candidates will need to have a minimum of three years in a P-12 setting (18 months for admission to the program). The teaching or instructional experience must be as a contracted teacher in either a traditional or year-round public or private school. Applicants must provide evidence of a current teaching license. The current teaching license must be a renewable standard or professional license. Licenses that are designated as a temporary, substitute, emergency, probationary, intern, or other non-professional licenses will not be accepted.
Immunizations:
Requirements may vary by district, and candidates should contact the school district for a list of the immunizations required prior to internship.[1]
Field Experience:
Principal candidates will complete a minimum of 30 hours of verified field experiences relating to specific course content. The field experience hours are completed outside of the 240-hour Administrative Internship experience.[1]
Internship Experience:
Principal candidates will complete a minimum 240-hour Internship experience at an approved site. The internship hours are accrued in addition to the field experience hours.[1]
Exam:
Principal Exam[1]: Principal candidates will complete the Principal certification exam.
Praxis School Leaders Licensure Assessment
Apply for Licensure:
Maine principal candidates will apply for licensure directly to the Maine Department of Education.
Maine Building Administrator Application
State Agency Contact Information:
Maine Dept. of Education
23 State House Station
Augusta, ME 04333-0023
Phone: 207-624-6600
Fax: 207-624-6700
As a principal candidate in Maryland, you must meet the following requirements to apply for licensure through the Direct Apply pathway after completing your University of Phoenix principal preparation program:
Teaching Experience:
Principal candidates will need to have a minimum of three years licensed or certificated instructional experience in a P-12 setting (18 months for admission to the program). The teaching or instructional experience must be as a contracted teacher in either a traditional or year-round public or private school. Applicants must provide evidence of a current teaching license. The current teaching license must be a renewable standard or professional license. Licenses that are designated as a temporary, substitute, emergency, probationary, intern, or other non-professional licenses will not be accepted.
Immunizations:
Requirements may vary by district, and candidates should contact the school district for a list of the immunizations required prior to internship.[1]
Field Experience:
Principal candidates will complete a minimum of 30 hours of verified field experiences relating to specific course content. The field experience hours are completed outside of the 240-hour Administrative Internship experience.[1]
Internship Experience:
Principal candidates will complete a minimum 240-hour Internship experience at an approved site. The internship hours are accrued in addition to the field experience hours.[1]
Exam:
Principal Exam[1]: Principal candidates will complete the Principal certification exam.
Praxis School Leaders Licensure Assessment
Additional coursework:
Principal candidates seeking licensure in Maryland will need 3 semester hours of coursework in Special Education. Some candidates meet this requirement through a course from their undergraduate degree. If not met, candidates can choose to take SPED/531 Special Education Teaching Methods or one of the MD approved Continuing Professional Development credits in special education to meet the requirement.
Apply for Licensure:
Maryland principal candidates will apply for licensure directly to the Maryland Department of Education.
Maryland Adding an Endorsement/New Area of Licensure (Supervisor of Pupil Personnel)
State Agency Contact Information:
Maryland State Dept. of Education
Certification Branch
200 West Baltimore Street
Baltimore, MD 21201-2595
Phone: 410-767-0390
Email: certinfo.msde@maryland.gov
As a principal candidate in Michigan, you must meet the following requirements to apply for licensure through the Direct Apply pathway after completing your University of Phoenix principal preparation program:
Teaching Experience:
Principal candidates will need to have a minimum of three years instructional experience in a P-12 setting (18 months for admission to the program). The teaching or instructional experience must be as a contracted teacher in either a traditional or year-round public or private school. Applicants must provide evidence of a current teaching license. The current teaching license must be a renewable standard or professional license. Licenses that are designated as a temporary, substitute, emergency, probationary, intern, or other non-professional licenses will not be accepted.
Immunizations:
Requirements may vary by district, and candidates should contact the school district for a list of the immunizations required prior to internship.[1]
Field Experience:
Principal candidates will complete a minimum of 30 hours of verified field experiences relating to specific course content. The field experience hours are completed outside of the 240-hour Administrative Internship experience.[1]
Internship Experience:
Principal candidates will complete a minimum 240-hour Internship experience at an approved site. The internship hours are accrued in addition to the field experience hours.[1]
Apply for Licensure:
Michigan principal candidates will apply for licensure directly to the Michigan Department of Education.
Michigan Initial Principal Licensure Application
State Agency Contact Information:
Michigan Dept. of Education
Mailing Address:
P.O. Box 30008
Lansing, MI 48909
Physical Address:
608 W. Allegan Street
Lansing, MI 48909
Phone: 833-633-5788
As a principal candidate in Mississippi, you must meet the following requirements to apply for licensure through the Reciprocity pathway after completing your University of Phoenix principal preparation program:
Teaching Experience:
Principal candidates will need to have a minimum of three years instructional experience in a P-12 setting (18 months for admission to the program). The teaching or instructional experience must be as a contracted teacher in either a traditional or year-round public or private school. A valid teaching certificate is required for licensure. Applicants must provide evidence of a current teaching license. The current teaching license must be a renewable standard or professional license. Licenses that are designated as a temporary, substitute, emergency, probationary, intern, or other non-professional licenses will not be accepted.
Clearances:
Background check: Background check must be obtained and submitted to the University of Phoenix. Mississippi candidates apply for initial principal license via the reciprocity pathway. In order to obtain an Arizona Institutional Recommendation, reciprocity candidates must complete Arizona Fingerprint Clearance.[1]
Immunizations: Requirements may vary by district, and candidates should contact the school district for a list of the immunizations required prior to internship.[1]
Field Experience:
Principal candidates will complete a minimum of 30 hours of verified field experiences relating to specific course content. The field experience hours are completed outside of the 240-hour Administrative Internship experience.[1]
Internship Experience:
Principal candidates will complete a minimum 240-hour Internship experience at an approved site. The internship hours are accrued in addition to the field experience hours.[1]
Exam:
Principal Exam[1]: Principal candidates will complete the Principal certification exam.
Praxis School Leaders Licensure Assessment
The principal exam listed above is a Mississippi specific exam. Arizona Department of Education (ADE) accepts exams that are equivalent to ADE’s required exams. In order to waive the equivalent Arizona exam, the official score report must document that your exam was reported to another state and that you passed the exam in that state. The Arizona Out of State Exam Equivalents list is maintained by the Arizona Department of Education (ADE) and can be updated by ADE at anytime.
Arizona Out of State Exam Equivalents by State
Apply for Licensure:
Within 45 days of graduating from the principal preparation program, the University of Phoenix will prepare and submit an electronic Arizona Institutional Recommendation (AZ IR) to the Arizona Department of Education confirming completion of your program. Once the AZ IR has been submitted, Mississippi principal candidates will first apply for principal licensure in Arizona through the online Educator Certification System.[1]
Mississippi principal candidates must include a copy of their valid Arizona principal license as part of their application for Mississippi licensure.
Mississippi Licensure Application
State Agency Contact Information:
Mississippi Dept. of Education
P.O. Box 771
Jackson, MS 39205-0771
Phone: 601-359-3483
Email: techersupport@mdek12.org
As a principal candidate in Missouri, you must meet the following requirements to apply for licensure through a Reciprocity pathway after completing your University of Phoenix principal preparation program
Teaching Experience:
Principal candidates in Missouri will need to have a minimum of three years licensed or certificated instructional experience in a P-12 setting (18 months for admission to the program). The teaching or instructional experience must be as a contracted teacher in either a traditional or year-round public or private school. A valid teaching certificate is required for licensure. Applicants must provide evidence of a current teaching license. The current teaching license must be a renewable standard or professional license. Licenses that are designated as a temporary, substitute, emergency, probationary, intern, or other non-professional licenses will not be accepted.
Clearances:
Background check: Background check must be obtained and submitted to the University of Phoenix. Missouri candidates apply for initial principal license via the reciprocity pathway. In order to obtain an Arizona Institutional Recommendation, reciprocity candidates must complete Arizona Fingerprint Clearance.[1]
Immunizations: Requirements may vary by district, and candidates should contact the school district for a list of the immunizations required prior to internship.[1]
Field Experience:
Principal candidates will complete a minimum of 30 hours of verified field experiences relating to specific course content. The field experience hours are completed outside of the 240-hour Administrative Internship experience.[1]
Internship Experience:
Principal candidates will complete a minimum 240-hour Internship experience at an approved site. The internship hours are accrued in addition to the field experience hours.[1]
Exams:
Principal Exam[1]: Principal candidates in Missouri will complete the Missouri-approved Principal certification exam.
MoEGA: Building-Level Administrator (TC 080)
The principal exam listed above is a Missouri specific exam. Arizona Department of Education (ADE) accepts exams that are equivalent to ADE’s required exams. In order to waive the equivalent Arizona exam, the official score report must document that your exam was reported to another state and that you passed the exam in that state. The Arizona Out of State Exam Equivalents list is maintained by the Arizona Department of Education (ADE) and can be updated by ADE at anytime.
Arizona Out of State Exam Equivalents by State
Apply for Licensure:
Within 45 days of graduating from the principal preparation program, the University of Phoenix will prepare and submit an electronic Arizona Institutional Recommendation (AZ IR) to the Arizona Department of Education confirming completion of your program. Once the AZ IR has been submitted, Missouri principal candidates will apply for principal licensure in Arizona through the online Educator Certification System.[1]
Missouri principal candidates must include a copy of their valid Arizona principal license as part of their application for Idaho licensure.
Missouri Out of State Information
Contact Information:
Missouri Department of Elementary & Secondary Education
Mailing Address:
PO Box 480
Jefferson City, MO 65102
Physical Address:
205 Jefferson St.
Jefferson City, MO 65101
Phone: 573-751-0051
Email: certification@dese.mo.gov
As a principal candidate in Montana, you must meet the following requirements to apply for licensure through the Direct Apply pathway after completing your University of Phoenix principal preparation program:
Teaching Experience:
Principal candidates will need to have a minimum of three years licensed or certificated instructional experience in a P-12 setting (18 months for admission to the program). The teaching or instructional experience must be as a contracted teacher in either a traditional or year-round public or private school. Applicants must provide evidence of a current teaching license. The current teaching license must be a renewable standard or professional license. Licenses that are designated as a temporary, substitute, emergency, probationary, intern, or other non-professional licenses will not be accepted.
Immunizations[1]:
Requirements may vary by district, and candidates should contact the school district for a list of the immunizations required prior to internship.
Field Experience:
Principal candidates will complete a minimum of 30 hours of verified field experiences relating to specific course content. The field experience hours are completed outside of the 240-hour Administrative Internship experience.[1]
Internship Experience:
Principal candidates will complete a minimum 240-hour Internship experience at an approved site. The internship hours are accrued in addition to the field experience hours.[1]
Additional Requirements:
Completion of the following free on-line course in Indian Education
Introduction to Indian Education for All
Apply for Licensure:
Montana principal candidates will apply for licensure directly to the Montana Office of Public Instruction. The University of Phoenix will prepare an Institutional Recommendation for candidates to include in their application for licensure.
Montana Class 3 Principal Licensure Information
State Agency Contact Information:
Montana Office of Public Instruction
Attn. Educator Licensure
P.O. Box 202501 Helena
Montana 59620-2501
Phone: 406-444-3150
Email: cert@mt.gov
As a principal candidate in Nebraska, you must meet the following requirements to apply for licensure through the Direct Apply pathway after completing your University of Phoenix principal preparation program
Teaching Experience:
Principal candidates will need to have a minimum of three years instructional experience in a P-12 setting (18 months for admission to the program). The teaching or instructional experience must be as a contracted teacher in either a traditional or year-round public or private school. Applicants must provide evidence of a current teaching license. The current teaching license must be a renewable standard or professional license. Licenses that are designated as a temporary, substitute, emergency, probationary, intern, or other non-professional licenses will not be accepted.
Immunizations:
Requirements may vary by district, and candidates should contact the school district for a list of the immunizations required prior to internship.[1]
Field Experience:
Principal candidates will complete a minimum of 30 hours of verified field experiences relating to specific course content. The field experience hours are completed outside of the 240-hour Administrative Internship experience.[1]
Internship Experience:
Principal candidates will complete a minimum 240-hour Internship experience at an approved site. The internship hours are accrued in addition to the field experience hours.[1]
Exam:
Principal Exam[1]: Principal candidates will complete the Principal certification exam.
Praxis Educational Leadership: Administration and Supervision
Additional Requirements:
The below trainings can be met via recent college credits or employment experience within the past immediate five years. Click on each link for more information.
- Completion of the Human Relations Training Requirement
- Completion of the Special Education Training Requirement
Apply for Licensure:
Nebraska principal candidates will apply for licensure directly to the Nebraska Department of Education.
Nebraska Administrative Standard Certificate Requirements
State Agency Contact Information:
Nebraska Dept. of Education
Mailing Address:
P.O. Box 94987
Lincoln, NE 68509-4987
Physical Address:
500 S. 84th St., 2nd Floor
Lincoln, NE 68510-2611
Phone: 402-471-2295
Fax: 402-471-0117
As a principal candidate in Nevada, you must meet the following requirements to apply for licensure through the Reciprocity pathway after completing your University of Phoenix principal preparation program:
Teaching Experience:
Principal candidates will need to have a minimum of five years licensed or certificated instructional experience in a P-12 setting (42 months for admission to the program). The teaching or instructional experience must be as a contracted teacher in either a traditional or year-round public or private school. A valid teaching certificate is required for licensure. Applicants must provide evidence of a current teaching license. The current teaching license must be a renewable standard or professional license. Licenses that are designated as a temporary, substitute, emergency, probationary, intern, or other non-professional licenses will not be accepted.
Clearances:
Background check: Background check must be obtained and submitted to the University of Phoenix. Nevada candidates apply for initial principal license via the reciprocity pathway. In order to obtain an Arizona Institutional Recommendation, reciprocity candidates must complete Arizona Fingerprint Clearance.[1]
Immunizations: Requirements may vary by district, and candidates should contact the school district for a list of the immunizations required prior to internship.[1]
Field Experience:
Principal candidates will complete a minimum of 30 hours of verified field experiences relating to specific course content. The field experience hours are completed outside of the 240-hour Administrative Internship experience.[1]
Internship Experience:
Principal candidates will complete a minimum 240-hour Internship experience at an approved site. The internship hours are accrued in addition to the field experience hours.[1]
Exam:
Principal Exam[1]: Principal candidates will complete the Principal certification exam.
Praxis Educational Leadership: Administration and Supervision
The principal exam listed above is a Nevada specific exam. Arizona Department of Education accepts exams that are equivalent to their required exams. In order to waive the equivalent Arizona exam, the official score report must document that your exam was reported to another state and that you passed the exam in that state. The Arizona Out of State Exam Equivalents list is maintained by the Arizona Department of Education (ADE) and can be updated by ADE at anytime.
Arizona Out of State Exam Equivalents by State
Apply for Licensure:
Within 45 days of graduating from the principal preparation program, the University of Phoenix will prepare and submit an electronic Arizona Institutional Recommendation (AZ IR) to the Arizona Department of Education confirming completion of your program. Once the AZ IR has been submitted, Nevada principal candidates will first apply for principal licensure in Arizona through the online Educator Certification System.[1]
Nevada principal candidates must include a copy of their valid Arizona principal license as part of their application for Nevada licensure.
Nevada Administrator of a School License Information
State Agency Contact Information:
Nevada Dept. of Education
Carson City Office
700 E. Fifth Street
Carson City, NV 89701
Phone: 775-687-9115
Roop Street Office, Carson City
755 N. Roop St., Suite 201
Carson City, NV 89701
Phone: 775-687-7300
Fax: 775-687-8636
Las Vegas Office
2080 E. Flamingo Rd., Suite 210
Las Vegas NV 89119
Phone: 702-486-6458
Fax: 702-486-6450
Email: license@doe.nv.gov
As a principal candidate in New Hampshire, you must meet the following requirements to apply for licensure through the Direct Apply pathway after completing your University of Phoenix principal preparation program:
Teaching Experience:
Principal candidates will need to have a minimum of five years instructional experience in a P-12 setting (42 months for admission to the program). The teaching or instructional experience must be as a contracted teacher in either a traditional or year-round public or private school. Applicants must provide evidence of a current teaching license. The current teaching license must be a renewable standard or professional license. Licenses that are designated as a temporary, substitute, emergency, probationary, intern, or other non-professional licenses will not be accepted.
Immunizations:
Requirements may vary by district, and candidates should contact the school district for a list of the immunizations required prior to internship.[1]
Field Experience:
Principal candidates will complete a minimum of 30 hours of verified field experiences relating to specific course content. The field experience hours are completed outside of the 240-hour Administrative Internship experience.[1]
Internship Experience:
Principal candidates will complete a minimum 240-hour Internship experience at an approved site. The internship hours are accrued in addition to the field experience hours.[1]
Apply for Licensure:
New Hampshire principal candidates will apply for licensure directly to the New Hampshire Department of Education.
New Hampshire Initial License Application
State Agency Contact Information:
New Hampshire Dept. of Education
Bureau of Credentialing
25 Hall St., 3rd Floor
Concord, NH 03301-3852
Phone: 603-271-2409
Help Desk Site: https://nhdoepm.atlassian.net/wiki/spaces/CHD/overview
As a principal candidate in New Jersey, you must meet the following requirements to apply for licensure through a Reciprocity pathway after completing your University of Phoenix principal preparation program:
Teaching Experience:
Principal candidates will need to have a minimum of five years licensed or certificated instructional experience in a P-12 setting (42 months for admission to the program). The teaching or instructional experience must be as a contracted teacher in either a traditional or year-round public or private school. A valid teaching certificate is required for licensure. Applicants must provide evidence of a current teaching license. The current teaching license must be a renewable standard or professional license. Licenses that are designated as a temporary, substitute, emergency, probationary, intern, or other non-professional licenses will not be accepted.
Clearances:
Background check: Background check must be obtained and submitted to the University of Phoenix. New Jersey candidates apply for initial principal license via the reciprocity pathway. In order to obtain an Arizona Institutional Recommendation, reciprocity candidates must complete Arizona Fingerprint Clearance.[1]
Immunizations: Requirements may vary by district, and candidates should contact the school district for a list of the immunizations required prior to internship.[1]
Field Experience:
Principal candidates will complete a minimum of 30 hours of verified field experiences relating to specific course content. The field experience hours are completed outside of the 240-hour Administrative Internship experience.[1]
Internship Experience:
Principal candidates will complete a minimum 240-hour Internship experience at an approved site. The internship hours are accrued in addition to the field experience hours.[1]
Exam:
Principal Exam[1]: Principal candidates will complete the Principal certification exam.
Praxis School Leaders Licensure Assessment
The principal exam listed above is a New Jersey specific exam. Arizona Department of Education accepts exams that are equivalent to their required exams. In order to waive the equivalent Arizona exam, the official score report must document that your exam was reported to another state and that you passed the exam in that state. The Arizona Out of State Exam Equivalents list is maintained by the Arizona Department of Education (ADE) and can be updated by ADE at anytime.
Arizona Out of State Exam Equivalents by State
Apply for Licensure:
Within 45 days of graduating from the principal preparation program, the University of Phoenix will prepare and submit an electronic Arizona Institutional Recommendation (AZ IR) to the Arizona Department of Education confirming completion of your program. Once the AZ IR has been submitted, New Jersey principal candidates will first apply for principal licensure in Arizona through the online Educator Certification System.[1]
New Jersey principal candidates must include a copy of their valid Arizona principal license as part of their application for New Jersey licensure.
New Jersey Principal Certificate of Eligibility
State Agency Contact Information:
New Jersey Dept. of Education
Certification & Induction
PO Box 500
Trenton, NJ 08625-0500
Phone: 609-292-2070
Email: Licensing.Requests@doe.nj.gov
As a principal candidate in New Mexico, you must meet the following requirements to apply for licensure through a Reciprocity pathway after completing your University of Phoenix principal preparation program:
Teaching Experience:
Principal candidates will need to have a minimum of six years instructional experience in a P-12 setting (54 months for admission to the program). The teaching or instructional experience must be as a contracted teacher in either a traditional or year-round public or private school. A valid teaching certificate is required for licensure. Applicants must provide evidence of a current teaching license. The current teaching license must be a renewable standard or professional license. Licenses that are designated as a temporary, substitute, emergency, probationary, intern, or other non-professional licenses will not be accepted.
Clearances:
Background check: Background check must be obtained and submitted to the University of Phoenix. New Mexico candidates apply for initial principal license via the reciprocity pathway. In order to obtain an Arizona Institutional Recommendation, reciprocity candidates must complete Arizona Fingerprint Clearance.[1]
Immunizations: Requirements may vary by district, and candidates should contact the school district for a list of the immunizations required prior to internship.[1]
Field Experience:
Principal candidates will complete a minimum of 30 hours of verified field experiences relating to specific course content. The field experience hours are completed outside of the 240-hour Administrative Internship experience.[1]
Internship Experience:
Principal candidates will complete a minimum 240-hour Internship experience at an approved site. The internship hours are accrued in addition to the field experience hours.[1]
Exam:
Principal Exam[1]: Principal candidates will complete the Principal certification exam.
Praxis Educational Leadership: Administration and Supervision
The principal exam listed above is a New Mexico specific exam. Arizona Department of Education accepts exams that are equivalent to their required exams. In order to waive the equivalent Arizona exam, the official score report must document that your exam was reported to another state and that you passed the exam in that state. The Arizona Out of State Exam Equivalents list is maintained by the Arizona Department of Education (ADE) and can be updated by ADE at anytime.
Arizona Out of State Exam Equivalents by State
Apply for Licensure:
Within 45 days of graduating from the principal preparation program, the University of Phoenix will prepare and submit an electronic Arizona Institutional Recommendation (AZ IR) to the Arizona Department of Education confirming completion of your program. Once the AZ IR has been submitted, New Mexico principal candidates will first apply for principal licensure in Arizona through the online Educator Certification System.[1]
New Mexico principal candidates must include a copy of their valid Arizona principal license as part of their application for New Mexico licensure.
New Mexico Reciprocating License
State Agency Contact Information:
New Mexico Public Education Department
300 Don Gaspar
Room 103
Santa Fe, NM 87501
Phone: 505-827-5800
Email: LicensureUnit@state.nm.us
As a principal candidate in North Carolina, you must meet the following requirements to apply for licensure through the Direct Apply pathway after completing your University of Phoenix principal preparation program:
Teaching Experience:
Principal candidates will need to have a minimum of four years instructional experience in a P-12 setting (30 months for admission to the program). The teaching or instructional experience must be as a contracted teacher in either a traditional or year-round public or private school. A valid teaching certificate is required for licensure. Applicants must provide evidence of a current teaching license. The current teaching license must be a renewable standard or professional license. Licenses that are designated as a temporary, substitute, emergency, probationary, intern, or other non-professional licenses will not be accepted.
Immunizations:
Requirements may vary by district, and candidates should contact the school district for a list of the immunizations required prior to internship.[1]
Field Experience:
Principal candidates will complete a minimum of 30 hours of verified field experiences relating to specific course content. The field experience hours are completed outside of the 240-hour Administrative Internship experience.[1]
Internship Experience:
Principal candidates will complete a minimum 240-hour Internship experience at an approved site. The internship hours are accrued in addition to the field experience hours.[1]
Apply for Licensure:
North Carolina principal candidates will apply for licensure directly to the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction.
North Carolina Administrator Licensure Application Information
State Agency Contact Information:
North Carolina Department of Public Instruction
Mailing Address:
6301 Mail Service Center
Raleigh, NC 27699-6301
Physical Address:
301 N. Wilmington Street
Raleigh, NC 27601-2825
Phone: 984-236-2100
As a principal candidate in North Dakota, you must meet the following requirements to apply for licensure through the Direct Apply pathway after completing your University of Phoenix principal preparation program:
Teaching Experience:
Principal candidates will need to have a minimum of three years instructional experience in a P-12 setting (18 months for admission to the program). The teaching or instructional experience must be as a contracted teacher in either a traditional or year-round public or private school. A valid teaching certificate is required for licensure. Applicants must provide evidence of a current teaching license. The current teaching license must be a renewable standard or professional license. Licenses that are designated as a temporary, substitute, emergency, probationary, intern, or other non-professional licenses will not be accepted.
Immunizations:
Requirements may vary by district, and candidates should contact the school district for a list of the immunizations required prior to internship.[1]
Field Experience:
Principal candidates will complete a minimum of 30 hours of verified field experiences relating to specific course content. The field experience hours are completed outside of the 240-hour Administrative Internship experience.[1]
Internship Experience:
Principal candidates will complete a minimum 240-hour Internship experience at an approved site. The internship hours are accrued in addition to the field experience hours. The North Dakota Department of Public Instruction currently has two types of principal credential: Elementary Principal Credential (for individuals serving grade levels K-8) and Secondary Principal Credential (for individuals serving in grade levels 5-12). A candidate’s internship experience needs to be at a site within the grade range he or she would like credentialed in post-graduation.[1]
Apply for Licensure:
North Dakota principal candidates will apply for licensure directly to the North Dakota Department of Public Instruction.
North Dakota Initial License Application
State Agencies’ Contact Information:
North Dakota Dept. of Public Instruction
600 E. Boulevard Avenue, Dept. 201
Bismarck, North Dakota 58505-0440
Phone: 701-328-2260
North Dakota Education Standards and Practices Board
2718 Gateway Avenue, Suite 204
Bismarck, ND 58503-0585
Phone: 701-328-9641
Fax: 701-328-9641
Email: espbinfo@nd.gov
As a principal candidate in Ohio, you must meet the following requirements to apply for licensure through the Direct Apply pathway after completing your University of Phoenix principal preparation program:
Teaching Experience:
Principal candidates will need to have a minimum of three years licensed or certificated instructional experience in a P-12 setting (18 months for admission to the program). The teaching or instructional experience must be as a contracted teacher in either a traditional or year-round public or private school. Applicants must provide evidence of a current teaching license. The current teaching license must be a renewable standard or professional license. Licenses that are designated as a temporary, substitute, emergency, probationary, intern, or other non-professional licenses will not be accepted. Candidates may choose from the following grade levels for a principal license based upon work experience:
- Grades PreK-6
- Grades 4-9
- Grades 5-12
Immunizations:
Requirements may vary by district, and candidates should contact the school district for a list of the immunizations required prior to internship.[1]
Field Experience:
Principal candidates will complete a minimum of 30 hours of verified field experiences relating to specific course content. The field experience hours are completed outside of the 240-hour Administrative Internship experience.[1]
Internship Experience:
Principal candidates will complete a minimum 240-hour Internship experience at an approved site. The internship hours are accrued in addition to the field experience hours. The Ohio Department of Education currently has three grade ranges for principal credential: Grades PreK-6, Grades 4-9 and Grades 5-12. A candidate’s internship experience needs to be at a site within the grade range they would like a credential in post-graduation.[1]
Exam:
Principal Exam[1]: Principal candidates will complete the Principal certification exam.
Apply for Licensure:
Ohio principal candidates will apply for licensure directly to the Ohio Department of Education.
State Agency Contact Information:
Ohio Department of Education
Office of Educator Licensure
25 South Front St., Mail Stop 504
Columbus, OH 43215-4183
Phone: 614-466-3593
Toll Free: 877-644-6338
As a principal candidate in Oklahoma, you must meet the following requirements to apply for licensure through the Direct Apply pathway after completing your University of Phoenix principal preparation program:
Teaching Experience:
Principal candidates will need to have a minimum of three years instructional experience in a P-12 setting (18 months for admission to the program). The teaching or instructional experience must be as a contracted teacher in either a traditional or year-round public or private school. Applicants must provide evidence of a current teaching license. The current teaching license must be a renewable standard or professional license. Licenses that are designated as a temporary, substitute, emergency, probationary, intern, or other non-professional licenses will not be accepted.
Immunizations:
Requirements may vary by district, and candidates should contact the school district for a list of the immunizations required prior to internship.[1]
Field Experience:
Principal candidates will complete a minimum of 30 hours of verified field experiences relating to specific course content. The field experience hours are completed outside of the 240-hour Administrative Internship experience.[1]
Exam:
Principal Exam[1]: Principal candidates will complete the Principal certification exam.
Principal Comprehensive Assessment – OSAT test code 144
Apply for Licensure:
Oklahoma principal candidates will apply for licensure directly to the Oklahoma State Department of Education.
Oklahoma Initial License Application
State Agency Contact Information:
Oklahoma State Dept. of Education
Office of Teacher Certification
2500 North Lincoln Boulevard, #212
Oklahoma City, Oklahoma 73105-4599
Phone: 405-521-3337
As a principal candidate in Oregon, you must meet the following requirements to apply for licensure through a Reciprocity pathway after completing your University of Phoenix principal preparation program:
Teaching Experience:
Principal candidates will need to have a minimum of three years licensed or certificated instructional experience in a P-12 setting (18 months for admission to the program). The teaching or instructional experience must be as a contracted teacher in either a traditional or year-round public or private school. A valid teaching certificate is required for licensure. Applicants must provide evidence of a current teaching license. The current teaching license must be a renewable standard or professional license. Licenses that are designated as a temporary, substitute, emergency, probationary, intern, or other non-professional licenses will not be accepted.
Clearances:
Background check: Background check must be obtained and submitted to the University of Phoenix. Oregon candidates apply for initial principal license via the reciprocity pathway. In order to obtain an Arizona Institutional Recommendation, reciprocity candidates must complete Arizona Fingerprint Clearance.[1]
Immunizations: Requirements may vary by district, and candidates should contact the school district for a list of the immunizations required prior to internship.[1]
Please note, the State of Oregon requires K-12 teachers and school staff (including interns) to be vaccinated against COVID-19 (see, Oregon Administrative Code 333-019-1030).
Field Experience:
Principal candidates will complete a minimum of 30 hours of verified field experiences relating to specific course content. The field experience hours are completed outside of the 240-hour Administrative Internship experience.[1]
Internship Experience:
Principal candidates will complete a minimum 240-hour Internship experience at an approved site. The internship hours are accrued in addition to the field experience hours.[1]
Exam:
Principal Exam[1]: Principal candidates will complete the Principal certification exam.
AEPA Principal Exam Subtest I and II
Apply for Licensure:
Within 45 days of graduating from the principal preparation program, the University of Phoenix will prepare and submit an electronic Arizona Institutional Recommendation (AZ IR) to the Arizona Department of Education confirming completion of your program. Once the AZ IR has been submitted, Oregon principal candidates will first apply for principal licensure in Arizona through the online Educator Certification System.[1]
Oregon principal candidates must include a copy of their valid Arizona principal license as part of their application for Oregon licensure.
Oregon Out-of-State Administrator License Information
State Agencies’ Contact Information:
Oregon Dept. of Education
255 Capitol St NE
Salem, OR 97310-0203
Phone: 503-947-5600
Fax: 503-378-5156
Oregon Teacher Standards and Practices Commission
250 Division St NE
Salem, OR 97301-1012
Fax: 503-378-4448
Email: contact.tspc@tspc.oregon.gov
eLicensing: online.tspc@tspc.oregon.gov
To submit transcripts: tspc.transcripts@tspc.oregon.gov
Fingerprint and background check questions: finger.printing@tspc.oregon.gov
As a principal candidate in Pennsylvania, you must meet the following requirements to apply for licensure through the Direct Apply pathway after completing your University of Phoenix principal preparation program:
Teaching Experience:
Principal candidates will need to have a minimum of three years licensed and certificated instructional experience in a P-12 setting (18 months for admission to the program). The teaching or instructional experience must be as a contracted teacher in either a traditional or year-round public or private school. Applicants must provide evidence of a current teaching license. The current teaching license must be a renewable standard or professional license. Licenses that are designated as a temporary, substitute, emergency, probationary, intern, or other non-professional licenses will not be accepted.
Immunizations:
Requirements may vary by district, and candidates should contact the school district for a list of the immunizations required prior to internship.[1]
Field Experience:
Principal candidates will complete a minimum of 30 hours of verified field experiences relating to specific course content. The field experience hours are completed outside of the 240-hour Administrative Internship experience.[1]
Internship Experience:
Principal candidates will complete a minimum 240-hour Internship experience at an approved site. The internship hours are accrued in addition to the field experience hours.[1]
Exam:
Principal Exam[1]: Principal candidates will complete the Principal certification exam.
Praxis School Leaders Licensure Assessment
Apply for Licensure:
Pennsylvania principal candidates will apply for licensure directly to the Pennsylvania Department of Education.
Pennsylvania Initial License Application
State Agency Contact Information:
Pennsylvania Dept. of Education
Forum Building
607 South Drive
Harrisburg, PA 17120
Phone: 717-783-6788
Email: ra-edcertquestions@pa.gov
As a principal candidate in Rhode Island, you must meet the following requirements to apply for licensure through the Direct Apply pathway after completing your University of Phoenix principal preparation program:
Teaching Experience:
Principal candidates will need to have a minimum of three years instructional experience in a P-12 setting (18 months for admission to the program). The teaching or instructional experience must be as a contracted teacher in either a traditional or year-round public or private school. Applicants must provide evidence of a current teaching license. The current teaching license must be a renewable standard or professional license. Licenses that are designated as a temporary, substitute, emergency, probationary, intern, or other non-professional licenses will not be accepted.
Immunizations:
Requirements may vary by district, and candidates should contact the school district for a list of the immunizations required prior to internship.[1]
Field Experience:
Principal candidates will complete a minimum of 30 hours of verified field experiences relating to specific course content. The field experience hours are completed outside of the 300-hour Administrative Internship experience.[1]
Internship Experience:
Principal candidates will complete a minimum 300-hour Internship experience at an approved site. The internship hours are accrued in addition to the field experience hours.[1]
Exam:
Principal Exam[1]: Principal candidates will complete a Principal certification exam.
Praxis School Leaders Licensure Assessment
Apply for Licensure:
Rhode Island principal candidates will apply for licensure directly to the Rhode Island Department of Education.
State Agency Contact Information:
Rhode Island Dept. of Education
255 Westminster Street
Providence, RI 02903
Phone: 401-222-4600
Email: eqac@ride.ri.gov
As a principal candidate in South Carolina, you must meet the following requirements to apply for licensure through the Direct Apply pathway after completing your University of Phoenix principal preparation program:
Teaching Experience:
Principal candidates will need to have a minimum of three years instructional experience in a P-12 setting (18 months for admission to the program). The teaching or instructional experience must be as a contracted teacher in either a traditional or year-round public or private school. A valid teaching certificate is required for licensure. Applicants must provide evidence of a current teaching license. The current teaching license must be a renewable standard or professional license. Licenses that are designated as a temporary, substitute, emergency, probationary, intern, or other non-professional licenses will not be accepted.
The South Carolina Department of Education currently has two grade spans for their principal credential: Elementary Principal Credential (for individuals serving grade levels PreK-8) and Secondary Principal Credential (for individuals serving in grade levels 6-12). Candidates must have at least one year of teaching experience within the grade span they wish to be certified as a principal (Elementary – PreK-8th or Secondary 6-12).
Immunizations:
Requirements may vary by district, and candidates should contact the school district for a list of the immunizations required prior to internship.[1]
Field Experience:
Principal candidates will complete a minimum of 30 hours of verified field experiences relating to specific course content. The field experience hours are completed outside of the 240-hour Administrative Internship experience.[1]
Internship Experience:
Principal candidates will complete a minimum 240-hour Internship experience at an approved site. The internship hours are accrued in addition to the field experience hours. The South Carolina Department of Education currently has two grade spans for their principal credential: Elementary Principal Credential (for individuals serving grade levels PreK-8) and Secondary Principal Credential (for individuals serving in grade levels 6-12). A candidate’s internship experience needs to be at a site within the grade range they would like credentialed in post-graduation.[1]
Exam:
Principal Exam[1]: Principal candidates will complete a Principal certification exam.
Praxis Educational Leadership: Administration and Supervision
Apply for Licensure:
South Carolina principal candidates will apply for licensure directly to the South Carolina Department of Education.
South Carolina Adding Leadership Fields Information
State Agency Contact Information:
South Carolina Dept. of Education
1429 Senate Street
Columbia, SC 29201
Phone: 803-734-8500
Email: info@ed.sc.gov
As a principal candidate in Tennessee, you must meet the following requirements to apply for licensure through the Direct Apply pathway after completing your University of Phoenix principal preparation program:
Teaching Experience:
Principal candidates will need to have a minimum of three (3) years instructional experience in a P-12 setting (18 months for admission to the program). The teaching or instructional experience must be as a contracted teacher in either a traditional or year-round school, of which one year (10-months) must have been in a Tennessee public or approved non-public school. Applicants must provide evidence of a current teaching license. The current teaching license must be a renewable standard or professional license. Licenses that are designated as a temporary, substitute, emergency, probationary, intern, or other non-professional licenses will not be accepted.
Immunizations:
Requirements may vary by district, and candidates should contact the school district for a list of the immunizations required prior to internship.[1]
Field Experience:
Principal candidates will complete a minimum of 30 hours of verified field experiences relating to specific course content. The field experience hours are completed outside of the 240-hour Administrative Internship experience.[1]
Internship Experience:
Principal candidates will complete a minimum 240-hour Internship experience at an approved site. The internship hours are accrued in addition to the field experience hours.[1]
Private schools selected for internship must be accredited by one (1) of the following: any accreditation division of AdvancED (the North Central Association Commission on Accreditation and School Improvement (NCA CASI), the Northwest Accreditation Commission (NWAC), and the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Council on Accreditation and School Improvement (SACS CASI)), the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools (MSA), the New England Association of Schools and Colleges (NEASC), the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC), any accrediting association recognized by the National Association of Independent Schools (NAIS) Commission on Accreditation (e.g., the Southern Association of Independent Schools (SAIS)) or the National Council for Private School Accreditation (NCPSA).
Exam:
Principal Exam[1]: Principal candidates will complete the Principal certification exam.
Praxis School Leaders Licensure Assessment
Apply for Licensure:
Tennessee principal candidates will apply for licensure directly to the Tennessee Department of Education.
Instructional Leader License (ILL)
State Agency Contact Information:
Tennessee Dept. of Education
Office of Educator Licensure and Preparation
9th Floor, Andrew Johnson Tower
710 James Robertson Parkway
Nashville, TN 37243
Email: Educator.Licensure@tn.gov
As a principal candidate in Texas, you must meet the following requirements to apply for licensure through a Reciprocity pathway after completing your University of Phoenix principal preparation program:
Teaching Experience:
Principal candidates will need to have a minimum of three years instructional experience in a P-12 setting (18 months for admission to the program). The teaching or instructional experience must be as a contracted teacher in either a traditional or year-round public or private school. A valid teaching certificate is required for licensure. Applicants must provide evidence of a current teaching license. The current teaching license must be a renewable standard or professional license. Licenses that are designated as a temporary, substitute, emergency, probationary, intern, or other non-professional licenses will not be accepted.
Clearances:
Background check: Background check must be obtained and submitted to the University of Phoenix. New Mexico candidates apply for initial principal license via the reciprocity pathway. In order to obtain an Arizona Institutional Recommendation, reciprocity candidates must complete Arizona Fingerprint Clearance.[1]
Immunizations: Requirements may vary by district, and candidates should contact the school district for a list of the immunizations required prior to internship.[1]
Field Experience:
Principal candidates will complete a minimum of 30 hours of verified field experiences relating to specific course content. The field experience hours are completed outside of the 240-hour Administrative Internship experience.[1]
Internship Experience:
Principal candidates will complete a minimum 240-hour Internship experience at an approved site. The internship hours are accrued in addition to the field experience hours.[1]
Exam:
Principal Exam[1]: Principal candidates will complete the Principal certification exam.
AEPA Principal Exam Subtest I and II
Apply for Licensure:
Within 45 days of graduating from the principal preparation program, the University of Phoenix will prepare and submit an electronic Arizona Institutional Recommendation (AZ IR) to the Arizona Department of Education confirming completion of your program. Once the AZ IR has been submitted, Texas principal candidates will first apply for principal licensure in Arizona through the online Educator Certification System.[1]
Texas principal candidates must include a copy of their valid Arizona principal license as part of their application for Texas licensure.
Texas Initial License Application
State Agency Contact Information:
Texas Education Agency
1701 N. Congress Ave.
Austin, TX 78701
Phone: 512-936-8400
Testing questions: 512-463-9039
As a principal candidate in Vermont, you must meet the following requirements to apply for licensure through the Direct Apply pathway after completing your University of Phoenix principal preparation program:
Teaching Experience:
Principal candidates will need to have a minimum of three years instructional experience in a P-12 setting (18 months for admission to the program). The teaching or instructional experience must be as a contracted teacher in either a traditional or year-round public or private school. Applicants must provide evidence of a current teaching license. The current teaching license must be a renewable standard or professional license. Licenses that are designated as a temporary, substitute, emergency, probationary, intern, or other non-professional licenses will not be accepted.
Immunizations:
Requirements may vary by district, and candidates should contact the school district for a list of the immunizations required prior to internship.[1]
Field Experience:
Principal candidates will complete a minimum of 30 hours of verified field experiences relating to specific course content. The field experience hours are completed outside of the 240-hour Administrative Internship experience.[1]
Internship Experience:
Principal candidates will complete a minimum 240-hour Internship experience at an approved site. The internship hours are accrued in addition to the field experience hours.[1]
Exam:
Principal Exam[1]: Principal candidates will complete a Principal certification exam.
Praxis School Leaders Licensure Assessment
Apply for Licensure:
Vermont principal candidates will apply for licensure directly to the Vermont Agency of Education.
Vermont Initial License Application
State Agency Contact Information:
Vermont Agency of Education
1 National Life Drive, Davis 5
Montpelier, VT 05620-2501
Phone: 802-828-1130
Fax: 802-828-6430
Email: aoe.edinfo@vermont.gov
As a principal candidate in Virginia, you must meet the following requirements to apply for licensure through the Direct Apply pathway after completing your University of Phoenix principal preparation program:
Teaching Experience:
Principal candidates will need to have a minimum of three years licensed or certificated instructional experience in a P-12 setting (18 months for admission to the program). The teaching or instructional experience must be as a contracted teacher in either a traditional or year-round public or private school. A valid teaching certificate is required for licensure. Applicants must provide evidence of a current teaching license. The current teaching license must be a renewable standard or professional license. Licenses that are designated as a temporary, substitute, emergency, probationary, intern, or other non-professional licenses will not be accepted.
Immunizations:
Requirements may vary by district, and candidates should contact the school district for a list of the immunizations required prior to internship.[1]
Field Experience:
Principal candidates will complete a minimum of 30 hours of verified field experiences relating to specific course content. The field experience hours are completed outside of the 240-hour Administrative Internship experience.[1]
Internship Experience:
Principal candidates will complete a minimum 240-hour Internship experience at an approved site. The internship hours are accrued in addition to the field experience hours.[1]
Exam:
Principal Exam[1]: Principal candidates will complete a Principal certification exam.
Praxis School Leaders Licensure Assessment
Apply for Licensure:
Virginia principal candidates will apply for licensure directly to the Virginia Department of Education.
Virginia Initial License Application
State Agency Contact Information:
Virginia Dept. of Education
Mailing Address:
P.O. Box 2120
Richmond, VA 23218
Physical Address:
James Monroe Building, 25th Floor
101 N. 14th St.
Richmond, VA 23219
Phone: 800-292-3820
As a principal candidate in Washington, you must meet the following requirements to apply for licensure through the Direct Apply pathway after completing your University of Phoenix principal preparation program:
Teaching Experience:
Principal candidates will need to have a minimum of three years licensed or certificated instructional experience in a P-12 setting (18 months for admission to the program). The teaching or instructional experience must be as a contracted teacher in either a traditional or year-round public or private school. Applicants must provide evidence of a current teaching license. The current teaching license must be a renewable standard or professional license. Licenses that are designated as a temporary, substitute, emergency, probationary, intern, or other non-professional licenses will not be accepted.
Immunizations:
Requirements may vary by district, and candidates should contact the school district for a list of the immunizations required prior to internship.[1]
Field Experience:
Principal candidates will complete a minimum of 30 hours of verified field experiences relating to specific course content. The field experience hours are completed outside of the 240 hour Administrative Internship experience.
Internship Experience:
Principal candidates will complete a minimum 240-hour Internship experience at an approved site. The internship hours are accrued in addition to the field experience hours.
Apply for Licensure:
Washington principal candidates will apply for licensure directly to the Washington Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction.
Washington Residency Principal Certificate
State Agency Contact Information:
Washington Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction
Professional Certification Office
Mailing Address:
PO Box 47200
Olympia, WA 98504-7200
Physical Address:
Old Capitol Building
600 Washington St. S.E.
Olympia, WA 98504
Phone: 360-725-6400
Fax: 360-586-0145
Email: Cert@k12.wa.us
As a principal candidate in West Virginia, you must meet the following requirements to apply for licensure through the Direct Apply pathway after completing your University of Phoenix principal preparation program:
Teaching Experience:
Principal candidates will need to have a minimum of three years instructional experience in a P-12 setting (18 months for admission to the program). The teaching or instructional experience must be as a contracted teacher in either a traditional or year-round public or private school. Applicants must provide evidence of a current teaching license. The current teaching license must be a renewable standard or professional license. Licenses that are designated as a temporary, substitute, emergency, probationary, intern, or other non-professional licenses will not be accepted.
Immunizations:
Requirements may vary by district, and candidates should contact the school district for a list of the immunizations required prior to internship.[1]
Field Experience:
Principal candidates will complete a minimum of 30 hours of verified field experiences relating to specific course content. The field experience hours are completed outside of the 240-hour Administrative Internship experience.[1]
Internship Experience:
Principal candidates will complete a minimum 240-hour Internship experience at an approved site. The internship hours are accrued in addition to the field experience hours.[1]
Exam:
Principal Exam[1]: Principal candidates will complete a Principal certification exam.
Praxis Educational Leadership: Administration and Supervision
Apply for Licensure:
West Virginia principal candidates will apply for licensure directly to the West Virginia Department of Education.
West Virginia Initial License Application
State Agency Contact Information:
West Virginia Dept. of Education
1900 Kanawha Boulevard East
Charleston, WV 25305
Phone: 304-558-7010
Toll Free: 833-627-2833
[1] Contact your Education Program Specialist for site approval, testing, and/or licensure information. Internship and licensure requirements vary by state. Candidates must follow the guidelines within their state, which may exceed minimum program requirements.
This summary of state licensure requirements is provided as a reference tool for our principal candidates. Every effort is made to ensure this information is accurate and up-to-date. As licensing requirements can change at any time, principal candidates can also check with their state’s licensing authority (contact information provided above).
State disclosures
The University has determined that its Master of Arts in Education/Administration and Supervision (MAED/ADM) program does NOT meet the requirements for licensure in the following states. Please click on the links below for contact information for the applicable state licensing board.